Anhui-style Cavacas

Ingredients

In this Anhui-inspired version of Cavacas, we incorporate the unique flavors and spices of Anhui cuisine. The original Portuguese Cavacas are typically made with a simple dough and topped with a sugar glaze. However, in this adaptation, we infuse the dough with traditional Anhui spices like star anise and Sichuan peppercorns, giving the pastries a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, we bake the Cavacas instead of frying them, resulting in a lighter and healthier version of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Cavacas, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise 1/2 teaspoon ground star anise
• 1/4 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns 1/4 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, ground star anise, and ground Sichuan peppercorns.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Take small portions of the dough and shape them into small balls or desired shapes.
6. 6.
   Place the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let the Cavacas cool for a few minutes.
8. 8.
   Dust the Cavacas with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Star anise — Use ground star anise for a more even distribution of flavor throughout the dough.
• Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the Sichuan peppercorns lightly before grinding them to enhance their aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced Anhui flavor, you can increase the amount of star anise and Sichuan peppercorns.
• Dust the Cavacas with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain their crispness.
• These pastries are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made.

Serving advice

Serve the Anhui-style Cavacas as a delightful dessert or as a sweet treat with a cup of tea. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Cavacas on a serving platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. You can also garnish them with a sprinkle of ground star anise or Sichuan peppercorns for an extra touch of elegance.